First homes handed over to buyers in Blair Athol’s new affordable housing community

The first of 67 new $475,000 two-bedroom homes have been handed over to happy buyers – take a first look at the mega new affordable housing project.

The first of almost 70 new affordable homes in the northern suburbs have been finished, kickstarting a new masterplanned community hoping to get renters into the housing market.

After a 12-month construction period, six homes on Birmingham St, at Blair Athol, will be handed over to new homeowners this week.

The new builds are part of a massive project to add almost 150 new homes to the suburb, including 67 affordable housing properties – selling for $475,000 – 70 public housing units and eight house and land packages.

The new builds are part of the SA Housing Authority’s affordable housing initiative, which promises to deliver 1000 new homes to eligible South Australians over the next five years, while the 70 public homes are among 1025 being built under the $232.7m public housing improvement program.

New green spaces at adjacent Dover St and Sheffield Cres have also been developed as part of the community program.

The first of almost 70 new affordable homes in the northern suburbs have been finished, kickstarting a new masterplanned community hoping to get renters into the housing market. Picture: Supplied

The homes have been listed for sale through Housing SA’s site, hoping to offer the chance for first home and middle-income buyers to enter the market. Picture: Emily Olle

Housing Minister Nick Champion said the affordable housing boost hoped to enable moderate-income households, including first home buyers, to break into the market.

“Blair Athol is undergoing major transformation as we look to add 67 affordable homes and 70 public houses to this vibrant community which is conveniently located close to schools and services,” Mr Champion said.

“The key to solving the housing crisis is increasing the supply of homes in this state, so I’d like to congratulate Rivergum Homes for building the first six affordable homes efficiently and quickly.”

The homes were listed exclusively on the SA Housing Authority’s sales platform.

Eligible purchasers can also access additional finance through the HomeStart Finance Shared Equity Loan program, which increases buying capacity.

SA Housing Trust Board presiding member Mary Patestos said building communities, not just homes, was key to tackling the housing crisis.

“While is it vital that we build homes people can afford, it is just as important to encourage strong community by building a space where people can grow and thrive,” Ms Patestos said.

“It is also just as important that they have access to green space.”